NUSC offers no experience necessary recreational soccer leagues for children ages 5 to 13.  Children are divided  into teams according to their age on July 31.  If they are under six years of age they play Under Six (U6), etc.  Children who are six or seven years old on July 31 play in the Under Eight (U8) division, and so on.  Our age groups are U6, U8, U0, U12 and U14. NUSC is a member league of the United States Youth Soccer Association, and has adopted their rules for youth soccer.  The rules of play change a bit as the kids get older.  The most noticeable changes are the number of players on the fields at one time, the size of the fields, the goals, and the balls.

The goal of recreational soccer is to develop as a player in a fun, safe environment.  The focus changes a bit as the kids grow, but developing good soccer technique is the principle coaching goal throughout.  Teams typically practice once per week.  We have a six game fall season, and a six game spring season. 
 

NUSC offers those players who want to make a stronger commitment to their development within the game that opportunity for a more intense soccer experience.  Competitive teams are referred to as Select, because players are selected through try-outs, typically held during the 3rd week of June.  Competitive teams are sometimes referred to as travel teams, because one half of the games are away (up to 60-120 minute drive). When the numbers of players allow, NUSC fields competitive boy's and girl's teams in the U10, U12, U14 and high school age groups.  It is generally understood that U10 thru U14 players commit to both fall and spring seasons, although single season membership is possible.

The primary goal of competitive soccer is to develop as a player in a fun, safe, competitive environment.  We play against very well trained teams as a member of the Grand Valley Soccer Association (GVSA), and must rise to the challenge.  A greater emphasis is placed on individual and team performance.  We want to win.